Aston Martin is set to enter a new era in Formula 1 as legendary designer Adrian Newey, whose cars have claimed 14 Drivers’ titles, 12 Constructors’ championships, and 223 Grand Prix victories, takes on the role of Team Principal from 2026. Widely regarded as one of the greatest engineers in F1 history, Newey will now combine his technical genius with leadership duties, steering the team through a pivotal season as Aston Martin becomes a full works outfit.
Newey, who joined Aston Martin as Managing Technical Partner on March 1, 2025, will now oversee both the technical team and trackside operations of the car. The move marks Newey’s first role as an F1 Team Principal, after a decorated career spanning two decades with Red Bull.
Andy Cowell, who has led the team as Team Principal and CEO over the past year, will transition to the newly created role of Chief Strategy Officer, focusing on optimising Aston Martin’s technical partnerships with works engine supplier Honda, fuel partner Aramco, and lubricant partner Valvoline. He will report directly to Executive Chairman Lawrence Stroll, who continues to lead the team’s business operations.
“Over the last nine months, I have seen great individual talent within our team,” Newey said. “I’m looking forward to taking on this additional role as we put ourselves in the best possible position to compete in 2026, where we will face entirely new challenges as a works team combined with the new regulations. Andy’s new role, focusing on the integration of the new PU with our three key partners, will be pivotal in this journey.”
Stroll added, “Andy has been a great leader this year, focusing on building a world-class team and fostering a culture that puts the race car at the heart of everything we do. This leadership change is a mutual decision we have reached in the interest of the team, and we look forward to working with him in his new capacity.”
Reflecting on his transition, Cowell said, “Having implemented much-needed structural changes and set the foundations for Adrian and the wider organisation, it is an appropriate time for me to take on the role of Chief Strategy Officer. I will focus on optimising our technical partnerships and ensuring seamless integration of the Team’s new PU, fuel, and chassis.”
The announcement comes amid a challenging season for Aston Martin, currently eighth in the Teams’ Championship, three positions lower than last year, with just two races remaining. Newey has already been working on the design for the 2026 car, which will be built to sweeping new chassis and power unit regulations, with hopes of elevating the team up the grid.
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